The SSE Board of Directors

Chair

Career and experience

Sir John has wide-ranging experience across the energy industry and private and public sectors. Through a 24-year career at BP he held a number of senior roles including Chief Executive, Refining and Marketing and was a main Board member. This was followed by President and Chief Executive Officer at Talisman Energy Inc before a move to UK Government where he was Chief Executive of the Civil Service and Permanent Secretary of the Cabinet Office. He has previously been a non-Executive Director of SABMiller plc and Chair of Leyshon Energy Limited.

Skills relevant to the SSE Board

Dynamic and engaging leader with diverse perspectives from multiple sectors, organisational settings and geographies.

Experienced in the governance of large-scale business operations, leading reform, the management of complex projects and driving business performance.

Strong communicator with insight into the management and development of stakeholder relations.

Working knowledge of energy regulation, government and policy considerations which underpin achieving net zero.

Brings sharp focus to people leadership, succession planning and inclusion and diversity.

Letters of appointment

Letter of appointment as Chair - July 2020

Letter of appointment - July 2020

Letter of reappointment - March 2024